Luv Bites

luv bites #6
Originally uploaded by Toni Wallachy

At the risk of sounding like a broken record - I keep taunting the benefits of having to feel your environment and your inner soul when creating your images. But I haven't chatted much about post processing needing to feel and compliment the captured story and image.

"The Keyhole Sessions" is a group that offers an alternative to life drawing classes. However every once in a while they open it up to photographers. This past Tuesday evening saw the return to all things lusty with Girls on Film II. Held at the Moroccan-inspired Foundation Room, where five beautiful models played it up for a slew of photographers. It was an amazing opportunity to photograph subject matter outside of the daily grind. An atmosphere heavy with kink, sexual tension and urban edge. Models are often partly costumed and come with attitude. Think latex, leather, rope and restraints, all wrapped around models who are there to have as much fun as the artists.

Now that we have painted you a picture, let's turn to example to the top image "Luv Bites #6"

I wanted the post processing to say the same thing I was feeling: intrigue, voyeuristic, like I was transported back to the early 70s free love era. The mood was edgy and grunge like. I felt like a visual ease dropper, observing a dark underground passion fest though a keyhole.

My 1st attempts have me thinking Polaroid - instant capture of time. A medium that was used heavily in the late 60's / 70s. Polaroid film produces "texture and colors that are very real. They're not as perfect as digital, but they're not as cold and sterile, either. I also toyed with 4 x 5 film borders and grain, as well as retro cross processing and toning. Although the toning effect was challenging due to the dark nature of the original images. I'm still not sure which mood fits better with the shoot. This will come in time. For now I continue to experiment while the experience is still fresh in my mind .... and loins. LOL